The Threat

Matthew Borja stepped out of the black SUV as it pulled up to the private entrance of Malacañang Palace. The air was thick with tension, and he could already feel the weight of the confrontation ahead. He had been summoned for a closed-door meeting with President-elect Emilio Vargas, a man who had spent weeks trying to crush him only to be forced into retreat. Now, they were face to face.

Angel and Lucas had insisted on coming with him, but Matthew refused. This was something he had to handle alone. He wasn't there to negotiate. He was there to make a point.

The guards led him through the hallway, past marble floors and ornate chandeliers, symbols of power that meant nothing to him. Finally, he was ushered into a private office where Vargas sat behind a polished mahogany desk, a fake smile plastered on his face.

"Matthew," Vargas greeted, gesturing to the seat across from him. "I appreciate you coming."